Addressing Land-based Activities in the Western Indian Ocean

This project has a primary focus on the degradation of the marine and coastal environment due to land-based activities. Three objectives have been identified: Reduce stress to the ecosystem by improving water and sediment quality; Strengthen regional legal basis for preventing land-based sources of pollution; and Develop regional capacity and strengthen institutions for sustainable, less polluting development. These three objectives will provide a strong basis for sustainable environmental management in the Western Indian Ocean region in the future. A preliminary Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis and a preliminary Strategic Action Programme serve as the basis for preparation of this project proposal. The full GEF project will refine the TDA and SAP, following clarification of some aspects of the environmental status of the region. The project focus on the Global Program for Action will result in National Plans of Action for abating land-based sources, as well as a regional protocol for the existing Environmental Convention (Nairobi Convention) with Annexes. The project focus on broad stakeholder participation will help assure the sustainability of the GPA Plans of Action. The private sector will be also a focus for cooperation, key for long-term sustainability of actions.